After medical tests yesterday, the 25-year-old Swiss international joined Hannover at their training camp in Portugal. His only competitive appearances for Arsenal this season have been in the English League Cup.

"Due to the absences of Felipe and Leon Andreasen, we needed to take action in defence," explained Hannover coach Mirko Slomka. "With his physical robustness, his tactical understanding and his great commitment, he will be an asset in my opinion." The club's sporting director Jörg Schmadtke added: "Johan Djourou is a professional with international experience, and we are sure that he can help us immediately."

Hannover take on FC Anji Makhachkala in the UEFA Europa League round of 32, while Arsenal are up against FC Bayern München in the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League.

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